A Complex and Contradictory Character of Othello

Othello, one of William Shakespeare's classical literary masterpieces, tells the tragic story of a mighty warrior whose life is ultimately destroyed by suspicion and jealousy. The main catalyst for the events in the play is Othello himself, making his character one of the most influential and significant in the story. Othello's personality is complex and contradictory, as he is both an outsider and a respected figure in his own country.

As a dark-skinned Moor in Venice, Othello is culturally and racially marginalized. However, his skills as a soldier and leader are crucial to the state, making his presence essential for its stability. Despite being seen as an outsider by some, Othello is highly valued by the duke and senate, who rely on his military prowess.

Othello's unique qualities attract those who consider him a friend. His bravery, courage, wisdom, and tactfulness make him admirable in the eyes of others. However, Othello's downfall is largely due to his own actions. In one instance, he demonstrates patience by not engaging in a fight with Brabantio, Desdemona's father, in order to prove that their love is genuine. Yet, if he had been wiser and more confident in their love, he could have resisted the manipulation and brainwashing by his evil lieutenant, Iago. Othello's lack of utilizing his bravery and intelligence ultimately leads to his tragic demise.

In the story, Othello is both a perpetrator and a victim. He falls victim to Iago's schemes, which destroy his trust in his wife, his friend Cassio, and even himself. Had Othello known of Iago's plans earlier, he could have prevented the tragedy and saved Desdemona, his own reputation, and his self-respect. However, he succumbs to the unbearable idea of Desdemona's alleged infidelity, which threatens his dignity. Consequently, Othello not only loses his pride but also everything else, leaving nothing for him in this tragic tale.

Although Othello is the main character in this literary masterpiece, only a portion of the blame can be attributed to him. He never desired such a shameful ending, nor did he wish to kill his wife, lose his friend, and destroy his own reputation. These actions were a result of Iago's evil plans. If Othello had known Iago's true intentions, he could have taken steps to save everything, including Desdemona, Cassio, and his own life and honor.

Othello possesses distinctive yet contradictory personalities. He is brave and capable of leading an army, yet weak when it comes to controlling his own emotions. He may be a good leader, but he fails to assess his own army, ultimately falling victim to Iago's manipulation. He may be a good friend and husband, but he lacks trust in his loved ones, doubting their loyalty.

As for Othello's fate, the ending of his own death is fitting. His weakness led to the deaths of his friend and beloved wife, causing suffering for the people and exposing his vulnerability as a leader. Living in shame and unable to redeem his dignity, Othello's death is the only appropriate ending for him. However, before taking his own life, Othello could have made Iago suffer more. In the time the play is set, retribution was common, and Iago deserved a more severe punishment. He could have been publicly executed or subjected to a more tragic fate. Othello's lack of mercy towards Iago would have aligned with his contradictory attributes.

In conclusion, Othello's character is central to the tragic events in the play. While he is influenced by the evil plans of Iago, his own weaknesses and contradictions contribute to his downfall. Othello's death is a fitting end for him, considering the consequences of his actions. However, he could have made Iago suffer more before taking his own life. Ultimately, Othello's character is a complex and tragic figure, embodying both admirable qualities and fatal flaws.

Works Cited

1. "Characters of Othello." "Othello". 2002. Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia.
2. "Othello: Analysis of Iago." Web.
3. "Othello: Analysis of Major Characters." Web.